Drone rules in France
| Drones allowed? | Yes — under EU rules |
| License needed | EU Drone License (from 250 g) |
| Registration | Required — via AlphaTango |
| Insurance | Advised (mandatory above 20 kg) |
| Night flying | Not allowed in the open category |
| Max altitude | 120 m |
| Authority | DGAC · AlphaTango |
What you need to fly in France
Three things make your flight legal. Two are formalities — the license is the one that takes a few hours, and you can get it entirely online.
1. EU Drone License (A1-A3)
Required for every drone from 250 g. Online course + official exam, average ~4 hours. Valid in France and all 30 European countries for 5 years.
2. Operator registration (AlphaTango)
Usually the trickiest step for travelling pilots. Register once as an operator in your EASA country of residence and put the number on your drone — that registration is valid in France too. Local pilots register via AlphaTango.
3. Liability insurance
France does not make insurance mandatory in the open category, but the DGAC advises checking that your home liability insurance covers drone damage. Above 20 kg the EU-wide insurance rule applies.
The rules while flying
These EU-wide basics apply in France — plus the local details on the right.
Specific to France
- Night flying is prohibited in the open category — even with lights; only a prefectural derogation (applied ≥30 days ahead) allows it
- Drones over 800 g must additionally be registered on AlphaTango and carry a French electronic ID beacon — this applies to visiting operators too
- Flying over public space in built-up areas is prohibited in the open category
- Check the official Géoportail drone map (Restrictions UAS catégorie Ouverte) before every flight
- Minimum remote-pilot age in France is 14
You can still get licensed before your trip.
The average pilot finishes the course and exam in ~4 hours, fully online. Pass today and your official EU certificate lands in your inbox — valid in France and 29 other countries for 5 years.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a license for a DJI Mini (under 250 g) in France?
No license is needed under 250 g, but operator registration is required if the drone has a camera — and French geo-zone and built-up-area rules apply to all drones.
Is my EU Drone License from another country valid in France?
Yes — A1/A3 certificates from any EASA member state are recognised in France. One license covers all 30 countries.
Can I fly at night in France?
No — France prohibits night flying in the open category, even with lights on the drone. Only a prefectural derogation, applied for at least 30 days ahead, can allow it.
What is the 800 g rule in France?
Drones over 800 g must be registered on AlphaTango and broadcast a French electronic ID signal — also for visiting pilots. Most travel drones (like the DJI Mini series) stay under this threshold.
How fast can I get the EU Drone License?
The course and exam are fully online and take about 4 hours on average. Pass today and your certificate arrives in your inbox the same day.
One license. 30 countries.
Your EU Drone License is valid in every country below — check the local rules before you pack:
